Szafranówka (742 m a.s.l.) is a compact but rewarding summit sitting right on the Polish-Slovak border in the Little Pieniny range. Its sharp, rocky ridge built from crinoidal limestone gives the peak a distinctive alpine feel, and the views that open up to the north and west are far more impressive than the modest elevation might suggest.
From the summit you can take in a sweeping panorama of the Pieniny, the Gorce mountains, and the Radziejowa Ridge in the Beskid Sądecki. On clear days the massif of Mogielica — the highest peak of Beskid Wyspowy — is also visible. The southern side of the summit is forested, while the northern and western flanks open up to glorious long-distance views. The slopes are draped in hazel and grey alder scrub, making spring visits particularly atmospheric.
How to reach the summitThe slopes of Szafranówka are home to two rare plant species found in Poland: black cotoneaster and narrow-leaved inula. The name of the nearby stream — Zabaniska — hints at old mining activity in the area, as 'bania' was an old word for a mine shaft.